The year 2025 marked the end of an era for world cricket as several prominent international players across formats and countries announced their retirement. From explosive white-ball specialists to reliable Test anchors, this year’s list of retirees reflects a generational shift in global cricket dynamics. As teams prepare for the next cycle of ICC events, the departures of these seasoned performers leave behind significant voids, both in skill and leadership.
Here is a comprehensive look at all major cricketers who retired from international cricket in 2025.
Major International Retirements in 2025
1. Nicholas Pooran (West Indies) – All Formats
2. Heinrich Klaasen (South Africa) – All Formats
3. Glenn Maxwell (Australia) – ODIs
4. Marcus Stoinis (Australia) – ODIs
5. Martin Guptill (New Zealand) – All Formats
6. Dimuth Karunaratne (Sri Lanka) – Test Cricket
7. Tamim Iqbal (Bangladesh) – All Formats
8. Varun Aaron (India) – All Formats
9. Ross Taylor (New Zealand) – T20Is (Final Format)
10. Mushfiqur Rahim (Bangladesh) – T20Is (Final Format)
11. Rassie van der Dussen (South Africa) – ODIs
12. Ishant Sharma (India) – T20Is (Final Format)
13. Asif Ali (Pakistan) – All Formats
14. Virat Kohli (India) – Test Cricket
15. Rohit Sharma (India) – Test Cricket
16. Wriddhiman Saha (India) – All Formats
17. Mitchell Starc (Australia) – T20Is
18. Chetashwar Pujara (India) – All Formats
What It Means for 2026 and Beyond
The coming year will be crucial for teams rebuilding their identities. As the next generation takes center stage, selectors may push younger, fearless players into key roles earlier than expected. Meanwhile, the 2025 retirements open up conversations about workload management, format specialization, and the evolving structure of international cricket.
What remains undeniable is that the exit of these players marks the end of multiple unforgettable eras, and the beginning of new stories waiting to unfold.
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